Full Breakdown
Fox Entertainment Partners with Dhar Mann Studios for Vertical Microdramas
1/27/2026, 12:21:57 AM
Strategic Collaboration for Original Content
Fox Entertainment has entered into a multiyear agreement with Dhar Mann Studios, a digital studio founded by content creator Dhar Mann, to produce a series of original scripted vertical-video shows. This partnership aims to create an initial slate of 40 narrative-driven titles specifically designed for Holywater, a microdrama video platform in which Fox Entertainment acquired an equity stake last year. The shows will debut exclusively on Holywater’s My Drama app before being distributed globally by Fox Entertainment Global. The rollout of the first titles is anticipated for spring 2026.
Dhar Mann Studios, established in 2018, has garnered a substantial following, boasting over 163 million followers across various platforms. The studio is known for its inspirational content that aims to positively impact audiences. Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade emphasized Mann's storytelling prowess, stating, “Dhar Mann’s inspiring, undeniable storytelling excellence and passionate audience have made him one of the most powerful and consequential voices in entertainment today.”
Leadership and Creative Vision
To spearhead the production of vertical content, Dhar Mann Studios has appointed Erin McFarlane as its head of vertical content. McFarlane previously led creative programming for the vertical video platform SaltyTV. Sean Atkins, CEO of Dhar Mann Studios, noted that the collaboration with Fox and Holywater allows for unprecedented creative autonomy and resources, enabling the studio to reach both new and existing audiences effectively.
Broader Implications for Vertical Storytelling
This partnership marks a significant step in Fox Entertainment's strategy to expand its digital storytelling initiatives. The company is actively producing a slate of 200 original microdramas and vertical series for Holywater, reflecting its commitment to innovation in the entertainment landscape. Holywater co-founders Bogdan Nesvit and Anatolii Kasianov described the collaboration as the first step in a broader strategy to attract global creators and top-tier talent to vertical storytelling at scale.
Official Statements & Responses
In a joint statement, Sean Atkins and Erin McFarlane expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the innovative approach that Fox and Holywater bring to the table. They stated, “Rob and his team are both embracing innovation and investing in it, affording us an unprecedented level of creative autonomy and resources needed to build something that has never been done before at this scale.”
Prentiss Fraser, president of Fox Entertainment Global, added that this collaboration enhances Dhar Mann Studios' creative universe and solidifies Holywater's position in mobile-first storytelling.
Criticism & Opposition
While the partnership has been largely viewed positively, some industry observers have raised concerns about the sustainability of vertical video formats and whether they can maintain audience engagement over time. Critics argue that the novelty of vertical storytelling may wear off, leading to questions about the long-term viability of such content.
What's Next
As the first shows under this agreement are set to launch in spring 2026, the industry will be closely watching how this partnership unfolds and its impact on the evolving landscape of digital storytelling.
